Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Crispy and creamy, Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos are the perfect blend of flavors for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, these taquitos fit the bill. The combination of spicy jalapenos, savory chicken, and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla makes them irresistible. Plus, they are versatile enough to pair with your favorite dips like ranch and salsa.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: These taquitos come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: With creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as appetizers at parties or as a satisfying snack during game day.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and freeze them for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Large bowl
• Air fryer (optional)
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for baking your taquitos evenly and achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Large bowl: Necessary for mixing all the filling ingredients together without making a mess.

Ingredients

Crispy taquitos stuffed with creamy jalapeno chicken and cheese. Perfect appetizer or weekday snack!

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, Monterrey jack, or mozzarella
• ½ cup shredded Monterrey jack cheese, cheddar cheese, or mozzarella
• 8 slices Turkey Bacon, cooked and chopped
• 4 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and finely diced
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or shredded
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 16 corn or flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons oil or cooking spray
• Ranch (for dipping)
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Avocado
• Hot sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. Alternatively, if you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients:
1. Add shredded chicken.
2. Mix in cream cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in the cheeses and bacon.
4. Fold in diced jalapenos, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in a line on the center of each tortilla:
1. Roll each tortilla tightly.
2. Place them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent unrolling.

Step 4: Bake the Taquitos

Brush the taquitos with oil or spray with cooking spray:
1. Arrange on the baking sheet leaving space between each one.
2. Bake for 10–15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. For extra crispiness, broil on low for 2–3 minutes while watching closely.

Step 5: Air Fry Option

If using an air fryer:
1. Brush taquitos with oil.
2. Working in batches, air fry 4–6 taquitos seam side down for 6–8 minutes until golden.

Step 6: Pan Fry Method

For those who prefer pan-frying:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook taquitos seam side down for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy.
3. Transfer to a wire rack on a sheet pan to keep warm if needed.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve your Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos hot with salsa, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, ranch dressing, or sour cream.

Step 8: Reheating Tips

To reheat any leftovers:
1. Use an air fryer at 400˚F for 2–3 minutes.
2. Or oven at 375˚F for 4–5 minutes.
3. If using a microwave (note that it won’t retain crispiness), heat for about 30 seconds.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months following reheating instructions provided above.

Enjoy these delightful Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. These crispy taquitos make a fantastic appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining or enjoying on a cozy night in.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a cool contrast to the spicy filling.
• Sour Cream: Simple and classic, sour cream balances the heat with its smooth texture.
• Salsa: Fresh salsa brings a zesty kick that complements the flavors of the taquitos.
• Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip enhances the richness of the chicken and cheese.

As a Main Dish

• Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad to add crunch and freshness to your meal.
• Rice: Pair with cilantro lime rice for a filling and flavorful accompaniment.
• Tacos: Use the taquitos as a filling for soft tortillas with additional toppings like lettuce and cheese.

For Game Day

• Buffalo Sauce: Drizzle over taquitos for an extra spicy kick during game day celebrations.
• Cheese Dip: Serve with warm cheese dip for a cheesy indulgence that’s sure to please.

How to Perfect Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Perfecting your Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Bold Flavoring: Enhance your filling by adding spices like cumin or paprika for deeper flavor.
• Proper Rolling: Roll the taquitos tightly to prevent them from unrolling during cooking.
• Crispy Finish: Bake or air fry until golden brown; broiling briefly can add an extra crispiness if desired.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh jalapenos and quality cheeses for the best taste and texture.
• Batch Cooking: Make extra taquitos ahead of time; they freeze well and are great for quick meals later on.

Best Side Dishes for Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with your Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement these flavorful bites.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder adds sweetness and spice.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber, making your meal more balanced.
3. Guacamole Salad: A refreshing salad featuring guacamole ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and lime dressing.
4. Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices pairs well with the taquitos’ flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and can be seasoned to match the dish’s spice level.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a perfect appetizer before diving into the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos can be easy, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overfilling the tortillas: Adding too much filling can make it hard to roll the taquitos tightly. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling to ensure they stay intact while cooking.
• Skipping the oil spray: Not brushing or spraying the taquitos with oil may result in a dry texture. A light coating helps achieve that crispy finish everyone loves.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can be difficult to mix and may create lumps in your filling. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Ignoring tortilla type: Using the wrong type of tortilla can lead to tearing. Corn tortillas are ideal, but if you prefer flour, ensure they are warmed up first for better flexibility.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Placing too many taquitos close together can cause uneven cooking. Leave at least a half-inch space between each one for optimal crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid to maintain freshness.

Freezing Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

• Duration: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Preparation: Ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in the freezer, and consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 4-5 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 30 seconds. Note that this will not keep them crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until warm and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.

How spicy are Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos used. Removing the seeds reduces spiciness, making them more suitable for sensitive palates.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option. Just ensure you brush them with oil for that golden crispiness while baking.

How do I customize my Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos?

You can add ingredients like black beans, corn, or different spices to personalize your taquitos according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. They make an excellent appetizer or snack for any occasion. Try experimenting with different ingredients and dipping sauces, and enjoy this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!

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